Proven Methods for Cleaning Rust
Rust is not only unsightly but it can be very damaging so if you have this problem, the information in this article will show you some of the better methods for cleaning rust. Remember, rust can affect a car, kitchen faucet, bathroom sink or tub, and other areas that encounter moisture and metal. The problem is that anything touching the rusted area would instantly become discolored with the orange color, which would also be hard to remove.
Rust is a common household problem and the orange colored stains can develop almost anywhere. As you look around, you could even find rust on appliances, clothing, and furniture. In addition, rust can develop in any room containing metal and moisture but because of this needed combination, rust is most often found in the kitchen, bathroom, and basement. The longer you go without cleaning rust the more challenging stain removal can be so you want to get started quickly.
- Commercial Products – A variety of commercial products exist that could be used for cleaning rust. While each is unique, most products are made with acid that actually interacts with the rust, making it water soluble. At that point, cleaning rust becomes much easier. When shopping from commercial rust removal products, we suggest you look at the label so you can buy something that contains hydrofluoric acid, oxalic acid, or phosphoric acid.
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Abrasive Products – You could also use a number of different abrasive products for cleaning rust. Depending on the stain, you may be able to get it out only with hard work but if the stain were stubborn, you could then use a commercial or homemade product to help. For instance, a wire bristle brush or scouring pad would likely help. If preferred, you could drop a little mineral oil onto the stain to make cleaning rust even easier.
- Natural Products – Today, more and more people are choosing natural products over those containing harmful chemicals. For cleaning rust, you have several options that would work quite well. In this case, purchase ascetic acid or citric acid, which are both natural. Ascetic acid would be from apple or white vinegar while citric acid would come from oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and limes. For cleaning rust stains, all you would need is some of the liquid from the natural acid of choice and a clean, damp sponge.
The above solutions for cleaning rust work well for almost all situations but if you had rust on your clothes you could try a few other methods. For one thing, if the clothing item is white or it can be bleached, then all you need is quality bleach with hot water and the rust stain will come right out. If not, you could purchase a product called RIT for cleaning rust from fabric. This comes in a white wash for white clothing and a color remover for colored clothing.
One other option for cleaning rust would be to make a past out of baking soda, peroxide, and water. Apply the paste to the area on the clothing that is discolored and with a soft bristle toothbrush, gently work the paste into the area. When finished, you would launder the clothing as usual.